New York Jets 2011 Predictions: Does Losing Nnamdi Asomugha Doom the Jets?

The New York Jets wanted to sign Nnamdi Asomugha badly. During the brief free-agency period, both they and the Dallas Cowboys were considered the favorite to win the elite defensive back's services. Instead, both teams lost out as Asomugha signed a lucrative deal with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Given how the Jets had seemingly cut ties with cornerback Antonio Cromartie in negotiating with Asomugha, it's no surprise that some fans may have been worried. Here was a team that had just made back-to-back visits to the AFC Championship Game, and they were now on the verge of losing one of their best defensive players to free agency. If that happened, Pro Bowl corner Darrelle Revis would most likely be paired with second-year player Kyle Wilson.

Instead, GM Mike Tannenbaum shifted into overdrive and began negotiating with Cromartie. Last night, fans breathed a sigh of relief as Cromartie was re-signed to a four-year deal worth $32 million. That being said, with most key players of last year's team returning, the New York Jets will be just fine entering the new season.

Let's not forget that clutch wide receiver Santonio Holmes was re-signed for five years and $50 million and that LaDainian Tomlinson will be back at running back following a dream 2011. More importantly, safety Jim Leonhard is coming back from a broken leg and his hard hitting will be welcomed back with open arms.

Most important, however, is that Rex Ryan is still the coach, not surprisingly. If any doubt remains as to how far the Jets can go this season, just look at who's patrolling the sidelines. Ryan did a great job of turning the Jets into contenders, and let's not forget that he didn't have Cromartie or Holmes his first year at the helm.

That all being said, the Jets are not doomed at all. In fact, they are the furthest thing from that.  They have a great core of players and team chemistry is off the charts.

Perhaps this year is when that elusive Super Bowl will be reached and, if all goes well, won.